Skip to main content

How to become a policy analyst

Analyse policies and their effects to direct government and organisation programs and operations.

What does policy analyst do?

Policy analysts analyse policies and their effects to direct government and organisation programs and operations. They offer strategic policy and planning advice for organisations and should have excellent analytical abilities and an understanding of organisational policies and objectives.

Duties and tasks

  • Analyse anticipated impact and financial circumstances, effect on other programs and political and administrative achievability of policies.

  • Evaluate existing policies and legislation to ascertain inconsistencies and out-dated requirements.

  • Implement and oversee research and analysis projects to evaluate socio-economic and commercial trends with organisations expectations of programs and services.

  • Prepare analyses of policy options for organisations as well as recommendations for policy development and modifications.

  • Serve as a reference and expert in the field on policy, program and legislative matters, working with government officials and stakeholders.

  • Work with other Managers and Board Members to outline goals and objectives and develop strategic policies to meet those objectives.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

  • Education officer

  • Foreign affairs and trade officer

  • Parliamentarian

  • Policy advisor

  • Policy and planning manager

  • Project and program administrator

  • Research officer

  • Research and development manager

  • Resource economist

  • University lecturer

Discover related degrees

Macquarie University

Master of Strategy and Security

PostgraduateMAQ-STS-MAS

Prepare to lead in high-stakes security environments

Specialise in advanced defence strategy, cyber intelligence, or counter-terrorism. Learn from experts in government and industry. Deep dive into threat assessment. Craft innovative policy solutions. Get ready to anticipate and respond to complex global risks.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Macquarie University

Analyse and influence national stability and resilience

Gain specialist knowledge in defence, security and geopolitics. Build skills to design evidence-based policy. Learn from leaders. Network and collaborate. Graduate prepared for impactful roles in government, defence, or international organisations.

Study method
100% online
Duration
6 months full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

Master of Public Policy and Leadership

PostgraduateGRF-PPL-MAS

Advance your career as a change-maker

Earn a globally recognised qualification in public sector and policy leadership. Tailor your degree to your career goals by specialising in policy analysis and impact, management and administration, regulation and integrity, or strategy and change.

Study method
100% online
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

A double degree in business and politics

Learn the workings of business and government for broad career options in private, public, and not-for-profit sectors. Focus your skills and knowledge with majors including international business, economics, public policy, and more.

Study method
100% online
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore public policy courses

Discover related subjects

University of Tasmania

Public Policy

UndergraduateTAS-HPP302

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 6 Jul 2026
Murdoch University

Public Policy Analysis

UndergraduateMUR-POL246

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 27 Jul 2026
La Trobe University

Crime Prevention and Policy

UndergraduateLTU-LCR2003

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026
Griffith University

Solving Policy Problems

UndergraduateGRF-GIR301

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 13 Jul 2026

Need help making study choices for your career?

Student advisor working on a laptop in OUA’s bright and modern office atrium
Matthew is part of our team of student advisors here to answer your questions.

Need help making study choices for your career?

Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.

They'll help you with:

  • Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.

  • Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.

  • Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.

Get unbiased advice at no cost today.

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us

Step up your career with these resources

How to write a business plan

Thinking about striking out on your own and starting your own company? Here's how to create an effective business plan.

10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025

Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.

5 small business courses for self-starters

Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.

How to negotiate a higher salary

Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.